Non-traditional psychiatric treatments in Asia

Abstract

Non-traditional (Eastern/non-conventional) treatments have gained increased interest and recognition recently. The utilization of these treatments in psychiatry challenges mental health professionals to examine the impact of cultural factors and the bi-directional effects of body on mind and mind on body when treating psychiatric illnesses. Professionals in the psychiatric field need to be aware of commonly practised treatments used by people in Asia, the most populous region in the world. There is a wide variety of non-traditional (Eastern) psychiatric treatments in Asia. This article selects only a few commonly practised treatments and describes the clinical application of each treatment.